Wednesday, April 6, 2011

2:51 PM

JoAnne Kloppenburg declared victory this afternoon, touting an Associated Press tally that shows her leading Justice David Prosser by 204 votes.

“We owe Justice Prosser our gratitude for his more than 30 years of public service,” Kloppenburg said. “Wisconsin voters have spoken and I am grateful for, and humbled by, their confidence and trust. I will be independent and impartial and I will decide cases based on the facts and the law. As I have traveled the State, people tell me they believe partisan politics do not belong in our Courts. I look forward to bringing new blood to the Supreme Court and focusing my energy on the important work Wisconsin residents elect Supreme Court justices to do.”

Prosser campaign director Brian Nemoir did not immediately respond to a call seeking comment. He has already said the campaign is preparing for a recount.

UPDATE: Prosser showed no signs of conceding in a late afternoon statement.

“Yesterday’s Supreme Court election produced a historic turnout, and an uncertain result,” Prosser said. “The victor in this election won’t be decided today, or even tomorrow, as counties conduct their canvases which will better‐reconcile the reported results. Throughout the day, vote totals and percentages have fluctuated, providing uncertainty. We have survived an epic campaign battle, and we will continue to fight for every vote cast.”